CFCC faculty member Professor Ryan O’Hayre is named by President Barack Obama as a recipient of the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers, the highest honor bestowed by the United States government on young professionals in the early stages of their independent research careers.

The Presidential Early Career Awards embody the high priority the Administration places on producing outstanding scientists and engineers to advance the nation’s goals and contribute to all sectors of the economy. Nine Federal departments and agencies join together annually to nominate the most meritorious young scientists and engineers—researchers whose early accomplishments show the greatest promise for strengthening America’s leadership in science and technology and contributing to the awarding agencies' missions.

"These extraordinarily gifted young scientists and engineers represent the best in our country," President Obama said. "With their talent, creativity, and dedication, I am confident that they will lead their fields in new breakthroughs and discoveries and help us use science and technology to lift up our nation and our world."

"Having one of the best fuel cell research laboratories in the country and the Nation's top Renewable Energy laboratory in our backyard has played a huge role in allowing me to hit the ground running with cutting-edge research from day one at Mines," said Dr. O’Hayre, who will receive his award in the fall at a White House ceremony. For more information, see the White House web siteand the the White House Blog.

President Barack Obama talks with the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) winners in the East Room of the White House, Jan. 13, 2010. January 13, 2010. (Official White House Photo by Lawrence Jackson)

Dr. Ryan O'Hayre is in the front row, first person to the right of President Obama.